Final answer:
The author learned that helping others and gaining a new perspective on life is valuable, influenced by the realities of resource scarcity and the reevaluation of attitudes towards homelessness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main lesson or realization that the author gained from their experience with the homeless is that helping others and seeing life from a different perspective is valuable. This understanding stems from the observation of scarcity of resources and the need to appreciate the various strengths and assets individuals facing homelessness can offer.
It is also influenced by the stigma surrounding homelessness, the need to reflect on life before and after housing, and the consideration of subjective poverty versus objective poverty, which emphasizes that people's reactions to homelessness may vary based on perceived contentment or desperation.